Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario would like to invite you to participate in the second annual Tulipa: A Hair Couture Event on March 30, and the Annual Cut-AThon For Parkinson's on April 17. These events offer the London community and surrounding areas, friends, families and coworkers an opportunity to join forces and help those living with Parkinson's.

Experience a night of spectacular entertainment on March 30 at 7 p.m. as Tulipa kicks off the beginning of Parkinson's April awareness month. Some of the most exclusive salons in London are coming together to showcase their stylists' creations on the runway at The London Tap House. If you love fashion and enjoy seeing new and unique designs, then this is an event for you.

The theme of the night is the tulip, so all stylists are required to use tulips in their designs. Not only do they create unique hairstyles, their clothes are tailored to match the stylist's vision of his or her creation.

Grab your friends for a night out and come see that London salons have more to offer than just a colour and cut. Tickets are $15 at the door, or $10 with student ID. All proceeds from the event will go to assisting local programs and services for people living with Parkinson's.

The annual Cut-A-Thon For Parkinson's takes place on April 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This event allows Londoners and those from surrounding areas to participate and raise awareness for those living with Parkinson's. Since 1994, London's most exclusive salons have participated in the Cut-AThon by providing a wash, cut and style.

Participants will not only receive a wonderful new 'do, they will also receive a gift package of professional hair products from JOICO Professional, included in the $35 participation fee, with all proceeds going to Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario.

Parkinson's is a chronic, degenerative, neurological condition without a known cause or cure that slowly disables people over time. Once thought to be a disease exclusive to the elderly, a growing number of people under the age of 40 are now being diagnosed. With the aging population, it is anticipated that the incidence of Parkinson's, and therefore the need for Parkinson's services, will double by year 2016.

Help ease the burden and find a cure for Parkinson's by taking part in Tulipa and Cut-A-Thon.

Those interested in attending Tulipa: A Hair Couture Event or participating in the Cut-A-Thon For Parkinson's should call 519- 652-9074 (London) or 1-888-851- 7376, or visit www.cutathon.ca to book an appointment.